Calígula (en. Caligula)

/kaˈliɣula/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishSpanish
noun
Roman emperor who ruled from 37 to 41 AD, famous for his cruelty and excesses.
The story of Caligula is filled with accounts of his madness and tyranny.
La historia de Calígula está llena de relatos de su locura y tiranía.
A person who acts in a despotic or tyrannical way.
His behavior at the meeting made him a Caligula among his peers.
Su comportamiento en la reunión lo convirtió en un calígula entre sus compañeros.

Etymology

The name 'Caligula' comes from the Latin 'caligula,' which means 'little boots' or 'footwear,' a nickname given to him in his childhood.

Common Phrases and Expressions

to act like a Caligula
To behave in a tyrannical or despotic manner.
actuar como un calígula
the madness of Caligula
To refer to eccentric or irrational acts.
la locura de Calígula

Related Words

tyrant
Ruler who exercises power oppressively.
tirano
despotism
Regime in which a tyrant has absolute control.
despotismo
dictatorship
Authoritarian government in which one person or a group has supreme power.
dictadura

Slang Meanings

An extremely cruel or whimsical person.
Don’t be a Caligula at the party; stop imposing your decisions.
No seas un calígula en la fiesta; deja de imponer tus decisiones.
Someone who abuses their power.
That boss is a Caligula; he always shouts at us for no reason.
Ese jefe es un calígula, siempre nos grita sin razón.